Fifty years ago, the newly completed meetinghouse for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1155 22nd Avenue in Sweet Home was dedicated with a celebratory recital featuring Dr. Henry Wolthuis on organ and Bonita Wolthuis on piano.
Now, in honor of the building’s 50th anniversary, their daughters will carry on the musical tradition with a commemorative concert.
René Wolthuis Johnson and Dr. Carmen Wolthuis Hall will present a piano and organ concert on Saturday, Aug. 23, in the same building where their parents performed five decades ago.
The 7 p.m. concert will feature an engaging and diverse program, including works by Widor, Kapustin, Brahms, Gounod, Mascagni, and Bédard, showcasing both the expressive range of the instruments and the artistry of the performers.
About the Artists
René Johnson is a pianist and organist based in Arlington, Virginia. She holds the Colleague Certification from the American Guild of Organists and currently studies with Dr. David Kelley. René is active in music education and serves as Secretary of the Virginia Music Teachers Association. She maintains a vibrant piano studio and is a sought-after presenter at state and national music teacher conferences. Her recent work includes rediscovering and performing music by composer Albert Rozin (1907–1987).
Dr. Carmen Hall is a pianist, educator, and founder of Timpanogos Chamber Music, now in its fourth season with over 50 concerts to its credit. She also directs Young Pianists International, providing students with performance and cultural exchange opportunities across the globe—including tours in Ghana, China, Japan, Italy, and Washington, D.C. Dr. Hall teaches at Utah Valley University and currently serves as president of the Utah Music Teachers Association.
The concert is free and open to the public, and is sponsored by Timpanogos Chamber Music and SHOCASE. SHOCASE (Sweet Home Oregon Coalition for Artistic and Scholastic Enruchment) works to connect artists with the community, enriching both through meaningful performances. Timpanogos Chamber Music, founded by Dr. Hall, promotes world-class chamber music performances and educational outreach.